IECC 2015 - GA 2020 Supplements and Amendments

Georgia State Supplements
and Amendments to the

International Energy
Conservation Code
(2015 Edition)
Georgia Department of Community Affairs

Community Development Division
60 Executive Park South, N.E.
Atlanta, Georgia 30329-2231
(404) 679-3118
www.dca.ga.gov
Revised January 1, 2020

GEORGIA STATE MINIMUM STANDARD ENERGY CODE
(INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE
WITH GEORGIA STATE SUPPLEMENTS AND AMENDMENTS)
The INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE, 2015 Edition, published by

the International Code Council, when used in conjunction with these Georgia State
Supplements and Amendments and any other Georgia State Amendments, shall constitute
the official Georgia State Minimum Standard Energy Code.
GEORGIA STATE SUPPLEMENTS AND AMENDMENTS
SCOPE:
Each chapter of these Georgia State Supplements and Amendments corresponds with a chapter
of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
Commercial Provisions
 Chapter 1: Scope and Administration
 Chapter 2: Definitions
 Chapter 3: General Requirements
 Chapter 4: Commercial Energy Efficiency
o Compliance Pathways for Commercial and High-Rise Residential Construction:
 Any of those delineated in this chapter; or
 COMcheck1
 Chapter 5: Existing Buildings
 Chapter 6: Referenced Standards
Residential Provisions
 Chapter 1: Scope and Administration
 Chapter 2: Definitions
 Chapter 3: General Requirements
 Chapter 4: Residential Energy Efficiency
o Compliance Pathways for Low-Rise Residential Construction:
 Any of those delineated in this chapter; or
 REScheck1
 Chapter 5: Existing Buildings
 Chapter 6: Referenced Standards
 Appendices RA, RB, RC and RD
o Throughout the appendices, there is information that may be helpful in meeting
and understanding the Georgia State Minimum Standard Energy Code. In cases
of conflict, refer to the IECC for clarification.
1. REScheck and COMcheck are computer programs developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratories
for the U.S. Department of Energy (D.O.E.) to assist in demonstration of compliance with the IECC. They
may be obtained free of charge from the D.O.E. online at www.energycodes.gov. When following the
REScheck compliance pathway, select the 2015 IECC as the code version. When following the
COMcheck compliance pathway, select either IECC 2015 or ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2013.
GA International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 2

The ‘Mandatory’ requirements of the IECC apply to all compliance methods.
Where these Georgia State Supplements and Amendments conflict with either the IECC or
ANSI/ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1, these Georgia State Supplements and Amendments shall take
precedence.
Air infiltration accounts for substantial heat loss, heat gain and moisture migration in a
building. Proper sealing around all doors, windows and other envelope penetrations through
the walls, ceiling and foundation is as important to code compliance as are proper insulation
R-values and component U-factors.
It is not the intention of this code to abridge safety or health. Where the IECC and these Georgia
State Supplements and Amendments conflict with other mandatory State Minimum Standard
Codes, the IECC and these Georgia State Supplements and Amendments shall be enforced as
written, provided that safety, health or environmental requirements of other mandatory State
Minimum Standard Codes are not abridged.
APPENDICES:
Appendices are not enforceable unless they are specifically referenced in the body of the code or
adopted by the Department of Community Affairs or the authority having jurisdiction.
This space intentionally left blank.

COMMERCIAL PROVISIONS
CHAPTER 1 [CE]
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
SECTION C101
SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
*Delete Section C101.1 ‘Title’ without substitution.

(Effective January 1, 2020)
*Add new Section C101.6 ‘Requirements for high-efficiency cooling towers’ to read as follows:
C101.6 Requirements for high-efficiency cooling towers. Cooling towers installed in new
construction shall be in compliance with ANSI/ASHRAE/IES 90.1 Standard.
SECTION C104
INSPECTIONS
*Delete SECTION C104 ‘INSPECTIONS’ without substitution.

SECTION C107
FEES
*Delete SECTION C107 ‘FEES’ without substitution.

SECTION C108
STOP WORK ORDER
*Delete SECTION C108 ‘STOP WORK ORDER’ without substitution.

SECTION C109
BOARD OF APPEALS
*Delete SECTION C109 ‘BOARD OF APPEALS’ without substitution.


CHAPTER 2 [CE]
DEFINITIONS
SECTION C202
GENERAL DEFINITIONS
*Revise the definition for ‘COEFFICIENT OF PERFORMANCE (COP) – COOLING’, to read

as follows:
COEFFICIENT OF PERFORMANCE (COP) – COOLING. The ratio of the rate of heat

removal to the rate of energy input, in consistent units, for a complete refrigerating system or
some specific portion of that system under designated operating conditions.
*Delete definition of ‘CONDITIONED SPACE’ and substitute the following:
SPACE. An enclosed space within a building. The classifications of spaces are as follows for
the purpose of determining building envelope requirements:
(a) Conditioned space: a cooled space, heated space, or indirectly conditioned space is defined
as follows:
(1) Cooled space: an enclosed space within a building that is cooled by a cooling system
whose sensible output capacity exceeds 5 Btu/h·ft2 of floor area.
(2) Heated space: an enclosed space within a building that is heated by a heating system
whose output capacity relative to the floor area is greater than or equal to 5 Btu/h·ft2.
(3) Indirectly conditioned space: an enclosed space within a building that is not a
heated space or a cooled space, containing un-insulated ducts, or containing the heating
equipment or which is heated or cooled indirectly by being connected to adjacent
space(s), provided that air from heated or cooled spaces is transferred (naturally or
mechanically) into the space. Unvented Attic Assemblies meeting the requirements of the
IRC are an approved indirectly conditioned space.
(b) Semi-heated space: an enclosed space within a building that is heated by a heating system
whose output capacity is greater than or equal to 3.4 Btu/h·ft2 of floor area but is not a
conditioned space.
(c) Unconditioned space: an enclosed space within a building that is not a conditioned space or
a semi-heated space. Crawl spaces, attics, and parking garages with natural or mechanical
ventilation are not considered enclosed spaces.
*Add definition of ‘COOLING TOWER’ to read as follows:
COOLING TOWER. A building heat removal device used to transfer process waste heat to the
atmosphere.

* Delete definition of ‘ON-SITE RENEWABLE ENERGY’, and substitute the following:
ON-SITE RENEWABLE ENERGY. Energy systems that are located on the building site, are
installed on the building’s side of the utility service provider’s meter, produce energy primarily
intended for use in the building and not solely for export to utilities, and produce energy derived
from any of the following sources: solar radiation, wind, waves, tides, biogas, biomass or the
internal heat of the earth. Energy systems that derive energy from solar radiation shall be
modeled in the orientation of the energy system.
The following description only pertains to energy systems that derive energy from solar radiation
and are owned by a third-party. The Georgia Solar Power Free-Market Financing Act of 2015
(commonly referred to as “HB 57”) allows a customer to purchase solar electricity generated by
a solar system owned by a third-party so long as certain criteria are met. Two key criteria are that
the law only authorizes solar systems that generate electricity fueled by sunlight and that the
solar system must be installed on property owned or occupied by the entity purchasing the
system’s electricity. The definition of “property” extends to all adjacent contiguous tracts of land
utilized by the entity purchasing the solar system’s electricity. “Building Site” in C202 is defined
as a contiguous area of land that is under the ownership or control of one entity. While this
definition of “building site” is similar to HB 57’s definition of “property,” the key difference is
that HB 57 focuses on the entity purchasing the solar system’s electricity. When modeling a solar
system that is owned by a third-party, it is best to refer to HB 57 to determine whether all criteria
have been met.

CHAPTER 4 [CE] COMMERCIAL
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
SECTION C402
BUILDING ENVELOPE REQUIREMENTS
*Revise Table C402.1.3 ‘Opaque Thermal Envelope Insulation Component Minimum

Requirements, R-Value Methoda’ Climate Zone 4 except Marine, for unheated slabs to read as
follows:
TABLE C402.1.3
OPAQUE THERMAL ENVELOPE INSULATION COMPONENT MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS, R-
a
VALUE METHOD
Climate Zone 4 EXCEPT MARINE
All other Group R
Slab-on-grade floors (remainder of table left unchanged)
Unheated slabs NR NR
SECTION C403
BUILDING MECHANICAL SYSTEMS
*Delete Section C403.2.3 ‘HVAC equipment performance requirements’ and substitute to read
as follows:
C403.2.3 HVAC equipment performance requirements. Equipment shall meet the minimum
efficiency requirements of Tables 6.8.1-1, 6.8.1-2, 6.8.1-3, 6.8.1-4, 6.8.1-5, 6.8.1-6, 6.8.1-7,
6.8.1-9, 6.8.1-10, 6.8.1-11, 6.8.1-12, and 6.8.1-13 of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 when tested and
rated in accordance with the applicable test procedure. Plate-type liquid-to-liquid heat
exchangers shall meet the minimum requirements of Table 6.8.1-8 of ASHRAE Standard 90.1.
The efficiency shall be verified through certification under an approved certification program or,
where a certification program does not exist, the equipment efficiency ratings shall be supported
by data furnished by the manufacturer. Where multiple rating conditions or performance
requirements are provided, the equipment shall satisfy all stated requirements. Where
components, such as indoor or outdoor coils, from different manufacturers are used, calculations
and supporting data shall be furnished by the designer that demonstrates that the combined
efficiency of the specified components meets the requirements herein.
The above referenced tables of ASHRAE 90.1, HVAC equipment performance tables are available
to download for free from DCA’s webpage located at: https://dca.ga.gov/node/3522/documents/2085

*Delete Section C403.2.8 ‘Kitchen Exhaust Systems’ without substitution.
*Delete Table C403.2.8 ‘MAXIMUM NET EXHAUST FLOW RATE, CFM PER LINEAR
FOOT OF HOOD LENGTH’ without substitution.
*Delete Section C403.2.9 ‘Duct and plenum insulation and sealing’ and substitute to read as
follows:
C403.2.9 Duct and plenum insulation and sealing. Supply and return air ducts and plenums
shall be insulated with a minimum of R-6 insulation where located in unconditioned spaces and
where located outside the building with a minimum of R-8 insulation in Climate Zones 2 through
4. Where located within a building envelope assembly, the duct or plenum shall be separated
from the building exterior or unconditioned or exempt spaces by a minimum of R-8 insulation in
Climate Zones 2 through 4.
Exceptions:
1. Where located within equipment.
2. Where the design temperature difference between the interior and exterior of the duct or
plenum is not greater than 15ºF (8ºC).
Ducts, air handlers and filter boxes shall be sealed. Joints and seams shall comply with section
C403.2.9.2 of these Georgia State Supplements and Amendments.
Exceptions:
1. Air-impermeable spray foam product shall be permitted to be applied without additional
joint seals.
2. For ducts having a static pressure classification of less than 2 inches of water column (500
Pa), additional closure systems shall not be required for continuously welded joints and
seams, and locking-type joints and seams of other than the snap-lock and button-lock types.
3. Where a duct connection is made that is partially inaccessible, three screws or rivets shall be
equally spaced on the exposed portion of the joint so as to prevent a hinge effect.
4. Sealing that would void product listings is not required.
*Add new Section C403.2.9.2 ‘Joints, Seams and Connections’ to read as follows:
C403.2.9.2 Joints, Seams and Connections. All longitudinal and transverse joints, seams and
connections in metallic and nonmetallic ducts shall be constructed as specified in SMACNA
HVAC Duct Construction Standards- Metal and Flexible and NAIMA Fibrous Glass Duct
Construction Standards. All joints, longitudinal and transverse seams, and connections in
ductwork shall be securely fastened and sealed with welds, gaskets, mastics (adhesives), mastic-
plus-embedded-fabric systems or tapes. Without exception all closure systems shall have
mastic applied that is at least 0.08 inches (2 mm) thick.

Closure systems used to seal flexible air ducts and flexible air connections shall comply with UL
181B and shall be marked “181B-FX” for pressure-sensitive tape or “181B-M” for mastic. Duct
connections to flanges of air distribution systems equipment shall be sealed and mechanically
fastened. Mechanical fasteners for use with flexible non-metallic air ducts shall comply with UL
181B and shall be marked 181B-C. Crimp joints for round metallic ducts shall have a contact
lap of not less than 1 inch (25.4 mm) and shall be mechanically fastened by means of not less
than three sheet-metal screws or rivets equally spaced around the joint.
Closure systems used to seal metal ductwork shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer’s
instructions. Round metallic ducts shall be mechanically fastened by means of at least three sheet
metal screws or rivets spaced equally around the joint. Unlisted duct tape shall not be permitted
as a sealant on any duct.
Exceptions:
1. Spray polyurethane foam shall be permitted to be applied without additional joint seals.
2. Where a duct connection is made that is partially inaccessible, three screws or rivets shall
be equally spaced on the exposed portion of the joint so as to prevent a hinge effect.
3. Continuously welded and locking-type longitudinal joints and seams in ducts operating at
static pressure less than 2 inches (51 mm) of water column (500 Pa) pressure
classification shall not require additional closure systems.
*Revise Section C403.3 ‘Economizers (Prescriptive)’ to read as follows:
C403.3 Economizers (Prescriptive).

Revise Section C403.3, Economizers (Prescriptive), to delete the last sentence of exception 2 and
add exception number 10, Computer Room Applications, at the end.
10. Computer Room Applications.
*Delete Section C403.4.2.6 ‘Pump isolation’ to add a new sentence at the end to read as follows:
C403.4.2.6 Pump isolation. Chilled water plants including more than one chiller shall have the
capability to reduce flow automatically through the chiller plant when a chiller is shut down.
Chillers piped in series for the purpose of increased temperature differential shall be considered
as one chiller.
Boiler plants including more than one boiler shall have the capability to reduce flow automatically
through the boiler plant when a boiler is shut down. Flow isolation shall allow time for adequate
thermal dissipation of residual heat to prevent relief before isolating boiler(s).

SECTION C407
TOTAL BUILDING PERFORMANCE
*Delete Section C407.3 ‘Performance-based compliance’ and substitute to read as follows:
C407.3 Performance-based compliance. Compliance based on total building performance

requires that a proposed building (proposed design) be shown to have an annual energy cost that
is less than or equal to the annual energy cost of the standard reference design. Energy prices
shall be taken from a source approved by the code official, such as the Department of Energy,
Energy Information Administration's State Energy Price and Expenditure Report. Code officials
shall be permitted to require time-of-use pricing in energy cost calculations.
The reduction in annual energy cost of the proposed design associated with on-site renewable
energy shall be not more than 5% of the total annual energy cost. The amount of renewable
energy purchased from off-site sources shall be the same in the standard reference design and the
proposed design.
Exception: Jurisdictions that require site energy (1 kWh = 3413 Btu) rather than energy
cost as the metric of comparison.
*Revise Section C407.4.2 ‘Additional documentation’ to add a new item 6 to read as follows:
C407.4.2 Additional documentation.
6. Documentation of the reduction in annual energy use associated with on-site

renewable energy.
SECTION C408
SYSTEM COMMISSIONING
*Revise Section C408 ‘System Commissioning’ to read as follows:
Strike the words “commission” and “commissioning” wherever they appear and replace with
“functional performance testing" throughout the entire Section C408 SYSTEM
COMMISSIONING as required.
*Delete Section C408.2.4.1 ‘Acceptance of report’ without substitution.


CHAPTER 6 [CE]
REFERENCED STANDARDS
*Revise Chapter 6 ‘Referenced Standards’ to add the following new Standards to read as follows:
UL LLC
UL 333 Pfingsten Road
Northbrook, IL 60062-2096
Standard Referenced
reference in code
number Title section number
181—2013 Factory-made Air Ducts and Air Connectors—with Revisions through May 2003 …………...............................……..…..C403.2.9.2
181A—2013 Closure Systems for Use with Rigid Air Ducts and Air Connectors—with Revisions through December 1998……..……..C403.2.9.2
181B—2013 Closure Systems for Use with Flexible Air Ducts and Air Connectors—with Revisions through August 2003.………..…..C403.2.9.2
(Standards not listed to remain unchanged)

RESIDENTIAL PROVISIONS
CHAPTER 1 [RE]
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
SECTION R101
SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
*Delete Section R101.1‘Title’ without substitution.

SECTION R103
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
*Delete SECTION R103 ‘CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS’ without substitution.

SECTION R104
INSPECTIONS
*Delete SECTION R104 ‘INSPECTIONS’ without substitution.

SECTION R107
FEES
*Delete SECTION R107 ‘FEES’ without substitution.

SECTION R108
STOP WORK ORDER
*Delete SECTION R108 ‘STOP WORK ORDER’ without substitution.

SECTION R109
BOARD OF APPEALS
*Delete SECTION R109 ‘BOARD OF APPEALS’ without substitution.


CHAPTER 2 [RE]
DEFINITIONS
*Add definition of ‘ATTIC KNEEWALL’ to read as follows:
ATTIC KNEEWALL. Any vertical or near-vertical wall in the building envelope that has
conditioned space on one side and unconditioned attic space on the other side. If the
envelope features the insulation installed along the sloped ceiling, the vertical wall is
considered an interior wall and thus does not require insulation.
*Add new definition of ‘CERTIFIED DUCT AND ENVELOPE TIGHTNESS (DET)

VERIFIER’ to read as follows:
CERTIFIED DUCT AND ENVELOPE TIGHTNESS (DET) VERIFIER. A certified

DET verifier shall be a certified Home Energy Rating Systems (HERS) rater, or be a Building
Performance Institute (BPI) Analyst, or be an Infiltration Duct Leakage (IDL) Certified, or
successfully complete a certified DET verifier course that is approved by the Georgia
Department of Community Affairs.
*Delete definition of ‘CONDITIONED SPACE’ and substitute to read as follows:
SPACE. An enclosed space within a building. The classifications of spaces are as follows for
the purpose of determining building envelope requirements:
(a) Conditioned space: a cooled space, heated space, or indirectly conditioned space is defined
as follows:
(1) Cooled space: an enclosed space within a building that is cooled by a cooling system
whose sensible output capacity exceeds 5 Btu/h·ft2 of floor area.
(2) Heated space: an enclosed space within a building that is heated by a heating system
whose output capacity relative to the floor area is greater than or equal to 5 Btu/h·ft2.
(3) Indirectly conditioned space: an enclosed space within a building that is not a
heated space or a cooled space, containing un-insulated ducts, or containing the heating
equipment or which is heated or cooled indirectly by being connected to adjacent
space(s), provided that air from heated or cooled spaces is transferred (naturally or
mechanically) into the space. Unvented Attic Assemblies meeting the requirements of the
IRC are an approved indirectly conditioned space.
(b) Semi-heated space: an enclosed space within a building that is heated by a heating system
whose output capacity is greater than or equal to 3.4 Btu/h·ft2 of floor area but is not a
conditioned space.
(c) Unconditioned space: an enclosed space within a building that is not a conditioned space or
a semi-heated space. Crawl spaces, attics, and parking garages with natural or mechanical
ventilation are not considered enclosed spaces.

* Add definition of ‘ON-SITE RENEWABLE ENERGY’ to read as follows:
ON-SITE RENEWABLE ENERGY. Energy systems that are located on the building site, are
installed on the building’s side of the utility service provider’s meter, produce energy primarily
intended for use in the building and not solely for export to utilities, and produce energy derived
from any of the following sources: solar radiation, wind, waves, tides, biogas, biomass or the
internal heat of the earth. Energy systems that derive energy from solar radiation shall be
modeled in the orientation of the energy system.
The following description only pertains to energy systems that derive energy from solar radiation
and are owned by a third-party. The Georgia Solar Power Free-Market Financing Act of 2015
(commonly referred to as “HB 57”) allows a customer to purchase solar electricity generated by
a solar system owned by a third-party so long as certain criteria are met. Two key criteria are that
the law only authorizes solar systems that generate electricity fueled by sunlight and that the
solar system must be installed on property owned or occupied by the entity purchasing the
system’s electricity. The definition of “property” extends to all adjacent contiguous tracts of land
utilized by the entity purchasing the solar system’s electricity. “Building Site” in R202 is defined
as a contiguous area of land that is under the ownership or control of one entity. While this
definition of “building site” is similar to HB 57’s definition of “property,” the key difference is
that HB 57 focuses on the entity purchasing the solar system’s electricity. When modeling a solar
system that is owned by a third-party, it is best to refer to HB 57 to determine whether all criteria
have been met.

CHAPTER 4 [RE] RESIDENTIAL
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
SECTION R401
GENERAL
*Revise Section R401.2 ‘Compliance’ to read as follows:
R401.2 Compliance. Projects shall comply with all provisions of Chapter 4

labeled “Mandatory” and one of the following:
1. Sections R401 through R404.
2. Section R405.
3. Section R406.
4. The most recent version of REScheck, keyed to the 2015 IECC.
*Revise Section R401.3 ‘Certificate (Mandatory)’ by revising first sentence and adding at end as
follows:
R401.3 Certificate (Mandatory). A permanent certificate shall be completed by the builder or

registered design professional and posted on or near the electrical distribution
panel or air handler. Where located on …
(Middle of section left unchanged) …water heating equipment. Refer to Appendix RD for the
Mandatory Compliance Certificate that shall be used. (Remainder of section left unchanged)
The above referenced form, Mandatory Compliance Certificate is available to download for free
from DCA’s webpage located at: https://dca.ga.gov/node/3522/documents/2090
SECTION R402
BUILDING THERMAL ENVELOPE
*Revise Table R402.1.2 ‘Insulation and Fenestration Requirements by Componenta’ as follows:
TABLE R402.1.2
INSULATION AND FENESTRATION REQUIREMENTS BY COMPONENT a
Wood Slabd Crawl
Glazed Attic Mass Basementc
Climate Fenestration Skylight b
Fenestration Ceiling Frame
Kneewall
Floor R-Value Spacec
Wall Wall
Zone U-Factorb U-Factor R-Value Wall R-Value & Wall
SHGCb,e R-Valuei R-Value R-Value
R-Value Depth R-Value
2 0. 35 0.65 0.27 38 13 18 4/6 13 0 0 0
3 0.35 0.55 0.27 38 13 18 8/13 19 5/13f 0 5/13
4 except
0.35 0.55 0.27 38 13 18 8/13 19 10/13 0 10/13
marine
(Remainder of footnotes left unchanged) (Effective January 1, 2020)

*Revise Table R402.1.4 ‘Equivalent U-Factorsa’ as follows:
TABLE R402.1.4
EQUIVALENT U-FACTORSa
Climate Fenestration Skylight Ceiling Frame Wall Mass Wall Floor Basement Wall Crawl Space Wall
Zone U-Factor U-Factor U-Factor U-Factor U-Factorb U-Factor U-Factor U-Factor
2 0.35 0.65 0.030 0.084 0.165 0.064 0.360 0.477
3 0.35 0.55 0.030 0.084 0.098 0.047 0.091c 0.136

4 except
0.35 0.55 0.030 0.084 0.098 0.047 0.059 0.065
marine
Table footnote left unchanged
*Add a new Section R402.1.6 ‘Compliance Alternative Constraints (Mandatory)’ to read as follows:
R402.1.6 Compliance Alternative Constraints (Mandatory). Where Compliance Alternative

Pathways are used, the minimum R-values, maximum U-factors, and maximum SHGCs for
thermal envelope components in projects complying under this code (including the use of
REScheck) shall be according to Table 402.1.6. Compliance Alternative Pathways include Total
UA Alternative, Simulated Performance Alternative, and Energy Rating Index Alternative.
*Add a new Table R402.1.6, ‘Minimum Insulation R-Values for Envelope Components When
Trade-offs Are Used’ to read as follows:
Table R402.1.6
MINIMUM INSULATION R-VALUES FOR ENVELOPE COMPONENTS WHEN TRADE-OFFS ARE USED
Floor Ceilings Vaulted c, d Vaulted

c, d Cathedralized c, d
Wooda Over with
Climate Framed Mass a, b Attic a, c Basement a Crawl a Unvented Attic Unvented Attic Vented Ceiling
Wall Kneewall Wall Wall Unheated Attic Roofline Roofline Roofline
Zone Walls Spaces Space Air-permeable Air-permeable
Air-impermeable
2 13 4 18 0 0 13 30 20 20+5* 20
3 13 5 18 5 5 13 30 20 20+5* 20
4 13 5 18 5 5 13 30 20 20+15* 20
Window U-Factor 0.5 max with SHGC 0.30 max * Air -impermeable as per IRC 806.5
a: Weather-stripped hinged vertical doors (minimum R-5 insulation or maximum U-0.20), weather-stripped hatches/scuttle hole covers
(minimum R-19 insulation or maximum U-0.05), or weather-stripped and disappearing/ pull-down stairs (minimum R-5 insulation or maximum U-
0.20) shall be deemed to meet the minimum insulation R-values of the corresponding envelope element.
b: Any mass wall (masonry, CMU, etc.)
c: Attic kneewall for the purpose of this code is defined as any vertical or near vertical wall in the building envelope that has conditioned space
on one side and attic space on the other side.
Exception: When the building roofline is insulated, the former kneewall is classified as an interior wall.
d: Examples of air-impermeable insulation include spray foam and rigid foam board. Examples of air-permeable insulation include fiberglass batts
and cellulose. See ‘Roofline Installed Insulation Options’ in Appendix RA, of these Georgia State Supplements and Amendments for details.

*Revise Section R402.2.1 ‘Ceilings with attic spaces’ to read as follows:
R402.2.1 Ceilings with attic spaces. Where Section R402.1.2 would require R-38 insulation in
the ceiling, installing R-30 over 100 percent of the ceiling area requiring insulation shall be
deemed to satisfy the requirement for R-38 wherever the full height of uncompressed R-30
insulation extends completely over the wall top plate at the eaves. This reduction shall not apply
to the U-factor alternative approach in Section R402.1.4 and the total UA alternative in Section
R402.1.5.
For HVAC attic platforms used for locating and servicing equipment, R-19 (maximum U-Factor
0.047) shall be deemed to meet the requirements of R-38 (maximum U-Factor 0.027) in the
ceiling. R-19 is deemed acceptable for up to 32 square feet of attic decking per HVAC system.
R-19 shall be deemed acceptable for a maximum 32 inch wide passage to the HVAC system as
referenced under M1305.1.2 of the International Residential Code.
*Delete Section R402.2.3 ‘Eave baffle’ and substitute to read as follows:
R402.2.3 Eave baffle. For air permeable insulation in vented attics, baffles shall be installed
adjacent to soffit and eave vents. A minimum of a 1-inch of space shall be provided between
the insulation and the roof sheathing and at the location of the vent. The baffle shall extend
over the top of the insulation inward until it is at least 4 inches vertically above the top of the
insulation. Any solid material such as cardboard or thin insulating sheathing shall be
permissible as the baffle. (See Appendix RA for further clarification.)
*Delete Section R402.2.4 ‘Access hatches and doors’ and substitute to read as follows:
R402.2.4 Access hatches and doors. Access doors from conditioned spaces to
unconditioned spaces (e.g. attics, unconditioned basements and crawl spaces) shall be
weather-stripped and insulated in accordance with the following insulation values:
1. Hinged vertical doors shall have a maximum U-Factor of U-0.20 (R-5 minimum);
2. Hatches/scuttle hole covers shall have a maximum U-Factor of U-0.05 (R-19 minimum);
and
3. Pull down stairs shall have a maximum U-Factor of U-0.20 with a minimum of 75
percent of the panel area having (R-5 minimum) insulation.
Access shall be provided to all equipment which prevents damaging or compressing the
insulation. A wood framed or equivalent baffle or retainer is required to be provided when loose
fill insulation is installed, the purpose of which is to prevent the loose fill insulation from spilling
into the living space when the attic access is opened, and to provide a permanent means of
maintaining the installed R-value of the loose fill insulation.

*Delete Section R402.2.11 ‘Crawl space walls’ and substitute to read as follows:
R402.2.11 Crawl space walls. As an alternative to insulating floors over crawl spaces, crawl
space walls shall be permitted to be insulated when the crawl space is not vented to the outside.
Crawl space wall insulation shall be permanently fastened to the wall and extend downward
from the floor to within 9 inches (229 mm) of the finished interior grade adjacent to the
foundation wall. A 3-inch (76 mm) inspection/view strip immediately below the floor joists shall
be provided to permit inspections for termites. Exposed earth in unvented crawl space
foundations shall be covered with a continuous Class 1 vapor retarder in accordance with the
International Building Code. All joints of the vapor retarder shall overlap by 6 inches (152 mm)
and be sealed or taped. The edges of the vapor retarder shall extend at least 6 inches (152 mm)
up the stem wall and shall be attached and sealed to the stem wall.
*Revise Section R402.3.4 ‘Opaque door exemption’ to read as follows:
R402.3.4 Opaque door exemption. One side-hinged opaque door assembly up to 24 square feet
(2.22 m2) in area is exempted from the U-factor requirement in Section R402.1.4. This
exemption shall not apply to Attic Access Doors or the U-factor alternative approach in Section
R402.1.4 and the total UA alternative in Section R402.1.5.
*Revise R402.4.1.1 ‘Installation’ to read as follows:
R402.4.1.1 Installation. The components of the building thermal envelope shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the criteria listed on page 1 of Appendix
RA of the 2020 Georgia State Supplements and Amendments, as applicable to the method of
construction. Where required by the code official, an approved third party shall inspect all
components and verify compliance. See Appendix RA ‘AIR BARRIER AND INSULATION
INSTALLATION COMPONENT GUIDE’ of these Georgia State Supplements and
Amendments for a graphical representation of the items listed above.
*Revise Section R402.4.1.2 ‘Testing’ to read as follows:
R402.4.1.2 Testing. All one and two-family dwelling units shall be tested and verified to less
than five air changes per hour at 50 Pascals (ACH50) for Climate Zones 2, 3, and 4. Testing
shall be conducted in accordance with ASTM E 779 or ASTM E 1827 or ANSI/RESNET/ICC
380 and reported at a pressure of 0.2 inch w.g. (50 Pascals). A written report of the results of the
test shall be signed by the party conducting the test and provided to the code official. Testing shall
be performed at any time after creation of all penetrations of the building thermal envelope.
Testing shall be conducted by a certified duct and envelope tightness (DET) verifier.
(Remainder of section left unchanged)

*Add a new Section R402.4.1.3 ‘Low-rise R-2 multifamily testing’ to read as follows:
R402.4.1.3 Low-rise R-2 multifamily testing. Low-rise R-2 multifamily dwellings shall
be tested to less than 7 air changes per hour at 50 Pascals (ACH50).
As an alternative to ACH50, compliance for Low-rise R-2 dwellings may be attained by

achieving an Envelope Leakage Ratio at 50 Pascals (ELR50) of less than 0.35 (ELR50 <
0.35, where ELR50 = CFM50 / Envelope Shell Area, in square feet).
*Add a new Section R402.4.1.3.1 ‘Low-rise multifamily testing protocol (Optional)’ to read as
follows:
R402.4.1.3.1 Low-rise multifamily testing protocol (Optional). Where a residential building is

classified as R-2, envelope testing may (optionally) employ either one or both of the following
testing protocols:
1. Utilize multiple fans in adjacent units (commonly referred to as Guarded Blower Door
testing) to minimize effect of leakage to adjacent units (not required).
2. Envelope testing of less than 100 percent shall be acceptable assuming a maximum
sampling protocol of 1 in 4 units per floor (if sampled unit passes, the remaining up to
three units are deemed to comply; if sampled unit fails, it must be sealed and retested and
the remaining up to three units shall also be tested).
SECTION R403
SYSTEMS
*Revise Section R403.1.2 ‘Heat pump supplementary heat (Mandatory)’ to add a new sentence
at the end to read as follows:
R403.1.2 Heat pump supplementary heat (Mandatory). Heat pumps having supplementary
electric-resistance heat shall have controls that, except during defrost, prevent supplemental
heat operation when the heat pump compressor can meet the heating load. Except in
emergency heating mode, the supplementary electric-resistance heat in heat pump systems
installed in new construction may not energize unless the outdoor temperature is below 40o F
(4oC).
*Add new Section R403.1.2.3 ‘Primary heat source’ to read as follows:
R403.1.2.3 Primary heat source. For new dwelling unit central HVAC systems, or replacement
HVAC systems installed in dwelling units that were originally permitted after January 1, 1996,
electric-resistance heat shall not be used as the primary heat source. Primary heat source is
defined as the heat source for the original dwelling unit system.

*Revise Section R403.3.2 ‘Sealing (Mandatory)’ to read as follows:
R403.3.2 Sealing (Mandatory). Ducts, air handlers and filter boxes shall be sealed. Joints
and seams shall comply with Section R403.3.6 of these Georgia State Supplements and
Amendments.
Exceptions:
1. Air-impermeable spray foam product shall be permitted to be applied without additional
joint seals.
2. For ducts having a static pressure classification of less than 2 inches of water column (500
Pa), additional closure systems shall not be required for continuously welded joints and
seams, and locking-type joints and seams of other than the snap-lock and button-lock types.
3. Where a duct connection is made that is partially inaccessible, three screws or rivets shall be
equally spaced on the exposed portion of the joint so as to prevent a hinge effect.
4. Sealing that would void product listings is not required.
*Revise Section R403.3.3 ‘Duct testing (Mandatory)’ to read as follows:
R403.3.3 Duct testing (Mandatory). Ducts shall be pressure tested to determine air leakage by
one of the following methods:
1. Rough-in test: Total leakage shall be measured with a pressure differential of 0.1 inch
w.g. (25 Pa) across the system, including the manufacturer’s air handler enclosure.
All registers shall be taped or otherwise sealed during the test.
2. Post-construction test: Total leakage shall be measured with a pressure differential of 0.1
inch w.g. (25 Pa) across the entire system, including the manufacturer’s air handler
enclosure. Registers shall be taped or otherwise sealed during the test.
Exceptions:
1. A duct air leakage test shall not be required where the ducts and air handlers are located
entirely within the building thermal envelope.
2. Duct tightness testing is not required for existing duct systems unless more than
50% of the duct system is modified.
3. If the air handler, furnace or evaporator coil is replaced on an existing system, all
joints, seams and connections from equipment to duct system and duct system
connections to plenums within 5 feet from the new work shall meet the sealing
requirements of this code and be verified by a visual inspection by the state licensed
conditioned air contractor or by a DET Verifier.
A report of the results of the test shall be signed by the party conducting the test and provided to
the owner or the owner’s agent and, if requested, to the code official.

*Revise Section R403.3.4 ‘Duct leakage (Prescriptive)’ to read as follows:
R403.3.4 Duct leakage (Mandatory). The total leakage of the ducts, where measured by
one of the following methods in accordance with Section R403.3.3 shall be as follows:
1. Rough-in test: The total leakage shall be less than or equal to 6 cubic feet per minute
(113.3 L/min) per 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of conditioned floor area where the air
handler is installed at the time of the test.
2. Post-construction test: Total leakage shall be less than or equal to 6 cubic feet per minute
(113.3 L/min) per 100 sq. feet (9.29 m2) of conditioned floor area.
Exceptions:
1. A duct air leakage test shall not be required where the ducts and air handlers are
located entirely within the building thermal envelope.
2. Duct tightness testing is not required for existing duct systems unless more than
50% of the duct system is modified.
3. If the air handler, furnace or evaporator coil is replaced on an existing system, all
joints, seams and connections from equipment to duct system and duct system
connections to plenums within 5 feet from the new work shall meet the sealing
requirements of this code and be verified by a visual inspection by the state licensed
conditioned air contractor or by a DET Verifier.
*Add a new Section R403.3.6 ‘Joints, seams and connections’ to read as follows:
R403.3.6 Joints, seams and connections. All longitudinal and transverse joints, seams and
connections in metallic and nonmetallic ducts shall be constructed as specified in SMACNA
HVAC Duct Construction Standards- Metal and Flexible and NAIMA Fibrous Glass Duct
Construction Standards. All joints, longitudinal and transverse seams, and connections in
ductwork shall be securely fastened and sealed with welds, gaskets, mastics (adhesives), mastic-
plus-embedded-fabric systems or tapes. Without exception all closure systems shall have mastic
applied that is at least 0.08 inches (2 mm) thick.
Closure systems used to seal flexible air ducts and flexible air connections shall comply with UL
181B and shall be marked “181B-FX” for pressure-sensitive tape or “181B-M” for mastic. Duct
connections to flanges of air distribution systems equipment shall be sealed and mechanically
fastened. Mechanical fasteners for use with flexible non-metallic air ducts shall comply with UL
181B and shall be marked 181B-C. Crimp joints for round metallic ducts shall have a contact
lap of not less than 1 inch (25.4 mm) and shall be mechanically fastened by means of not less
than three sheet-metal screws or rivets equally spaced around the joint.
Closure systems used to seal metal ductwork shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer’s
instructions. Round metallic ducts shall be mechanically fastened by means of at least three sheet
metal screws or rivets spaced equally around the joint. Unlisted duct tape shall not be permitted as
a sealant on any duct.

Exceptions:
1. Spray polyurethane foam shall be permitted to be applied without additional joint seals.
2. Where a duct connection is made that is partially inaccessible, three screws or rivets shall
be equally spaced on the exposed portion of the joint so as to prevent a hinge effect.
3. Continuously welded and locking-type longitudinal joints and seams in ducts operating at
static pressure less than 2 inches (51 mm) of water column (500 Pa) pressure
classification shall not require additional closure systems.
*Revise Section R403.5.4 ‘Drain water heat recovery units’ to read as follows:
R403.5.4 Drain water heat recovery units. Drain water heat recovery units shall comply with
CSA B55.2 or IAPMO PS 92. Vertical drain water heat recovery units shall be tested in
accordance with CSA B55.1 and have a minimum effectiveness of 42 percent when tested in
accordance with CSA B55.1. Sloped drain water heat recovery units shall be tested in accordance
with IAPMO IGC 346 and have a minimum rated effectiveness of 42 percent when tested in
accordance with IAPMO IGC 346 at the minimum slope specified in the Georgia plumbing code.
Potable water-side pressure loss of vertical drain water heat recovery units shall be less than 3 psi
(20.7 kPa) for individual units connected to one or two showers. Potable water-side pressure loss
of vertical drain water heat recovery units shall be less than 2 psi (13.8 kPa) for individual units
connected to three or more showers. Potable water-side pressure loss of sloped drain water heat
recovery units shall be less than 4 psi (20.7 kPa).
*Revise Section R403.6 ‘Mechanical Ventilation’ to read as follows:
R403.6 Mechanical ventilation (Mandatory). Where required, the building shall be provided
with ventilation that meets the requirements of the International Residential Code or
International Mechanical Code, as applicable, or with ASHRAE 62.2-2016, Ventilation and
Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low-Rise Residential Buildings (in entirety) or with other
approved means of ventilation. Outdoor air intakes and exhausts shall have automatic or gravity
dampers that close when the ventilation system is not operating.
(Remainder of section left unchanged)
*Revise Section R403.7 ‘Equipment sizing and efficiency rating (Mandatory)’ by adding the
following sentence at the end:
R403.7 Equipment sizing and efficiency rating (Mandatory). (The beginning of the section
left unchanged) For automatically modulating capacity heating and cooling equipment, the
system shall be deemed to comply with appropriate portions of Manual S provided the lowest
output capacity of the equipment is less than the peak design load as determined by Manual J.

*Add new Section R403.13 ‘Electric power attic ventilators’ to read as follows:
R403.13 Electric powered attic ventilators. In new construction, electric powered

attic ventilators shall not be connected to the Service supply premise wiring system.
Solar photovoltaic (PV) powered attic ventilators shall be permitted.
SECTION R406
ENERGY RATING INDEX
COMPLIANCE ALTERNATIVE
*Revise Section R406.3 ‘Energy Rating Index’ to read as follows:
R406.3 Energy Rating Index. The Energy Rating Index (ERI) shall be determined in
accordance with ANSI/RESNET/ICC 301 except for buildings constructed in accordance
with the International Residential Code, where the ERI reference design ventilation rate shall
be in accordance with the following:
Ventilation rate = (0.01 x total square foot area of house) + (7.5 (Nbr + 1))
Equation 4-1 where,
Ventilation rate is defined in units of cubic feet per
minute Nbr = Number of bedrooms
The ERI shall consider all energy used in the residential building including on-site renewable
energy. Energy used to recharge or refuel a vehicle for on-road (and off-site) transportation
purposes shall not be included in the ERI reference design or the rated design.
*Delete Section R406.3.1 ‘ERI reference design’ without substitution.

*Revise Table R406.4 ‘MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX’ to read as follows:
TABLE R406.4
MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX
CLIMATE ZONE ENERGY RATING INDEX
2 57
3 57
4 62

*Revise Section R406.6.1 ‘Compliance software tools’ to read as follows:
R406.6.1 Compliance software tools. The ERI shall be determined using Approved Software
Rating Tools in accordance with ANSI/RESNET/ICC 301.
*Delete Section R406.7 ‘Calculation software tools’ without substitution.

*Delete Section R406.7.1 ‘Minimum capabilities’ without substitution.

*Revise and rename Section R406.7.2 ‘Specific approval’ to read as follows:
R406.6.4 Specific approval. Performance analysis tools meeting the applicable sections of
Section R406 shall be approved. Documentation demonstrating the approval of performance
analysis tools in accordance with Section R406.6.1 shall be provided to the code official. The
code official shall approve tools for a specified application or limited scope.
*Revise and rename Section R406.7.3 ‘Input values’ to read as follows:
R406.6.5 Input values. Where calculations require input values not specified by Sections R402,
R403, R404 and R405, those input values shall be taken from ANSI/RESNET/ICC 301.

CHAPTER 5 [RE]
EXISTING BUILDINGS
SECTION R502
ADDITIONS
*Revise Section R502.1.1.2 ‘Heating and cooling systems’ to delete the exception and substitute
to read as follows:
R502.1.1.2 Heating and cooling systems. New heating, cooling and duct systems that are part
of the addition shall comply with Sections R403.1, R403.2, R403.3, R403.5 and R403.6.
Exception: Duct tightness testing is not required for existing duct systems unless more
than 50% of the existing duct system is modified.
SECTION R503
ALTERATIONS
*Revise Section R503.1.2 ‘Heating and cooling systems’ to read as follows:
R503.1.2 Heating and cooling systems. New heating, cooling and duct systems that are part of
the alteration shall comply with Sections R403.1, R403.2, R403.3 and R403.6.
Exception: Duct tightness testing is not required for existing duct systems unless more than
50% of the existing duct system is modified.

CHAPTER 6 [RE]
REFERENCED STANDARDS
*Revise Chapter 6 ‘Referenced Standards’ to add the following new Standards to read as
follows:
UL LLC
UL 333 Pfingsten Road
Northbrook, IL 60062-2096
Standard Referenced
reference Title in code
number section number
181 - 2013 Factory-made Air Ducts and Air Connectors—with Revisions through May 2003 ..……………………..… R403.3.6
181A - 2013 Closure Systems for Use with Rigid Air Ducts and Air Connectors—with Revisions through December 1998
…………………….…………………………………………………………………………………………. R403.3.6
181B - 2013 Closure Systems for Use with Flexible Air Ducts and Air Connectors—with Revisions through August 2003
…………………….…………………………………………………………………………………………. R403.3.6
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers,

ASHRAE Inc. 1791 Tullie Circle, NE
Atlanta, GA 30329-2305
Standard Referenced
reference Title in code
ASHRAE 62.2 – 2016 Ventilation and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low- Rise Residential Buildings ………………...……..… R403.6
ANSI/RESNE Residential Energy Services Network, Inc. P.O. Box 4561. Oceanside, CA 92052-4561
International Code Council, 500 New Jersey Avenue, NW, 6th Floor. Washington, D.C.
T/ICC 301 20001
Standard Referenced
reference in code
Title
Standard for the Calculation and Labeling of the Energy Performance of Low-Rise Residential Buildings using
ANSI/RESNET/ICC 301-
an Energy Rating Index .…….…………………………………………………………………………...…… R406
2014
IAPMO
IAPMO PS 92 4755 E. Philadelphia St.
Ontario, CA 91761 – USA
Standard Referenced
reference in code
Title
IAPMO PS 92-2013 Heat Exchangers and Indirect Water Heaters …...……………………………………………………..…..… R403.5.4
IAPMO IGC 346 Test Method for Measuring the Performance of Drain Water Heat Recovery Units ……………………...… R403.5.4
(Standards not listed to remain unchanged)

APPENDICES
Throughout these appendices there is information that may be helpful in meeting and
understanding the Georgia State Minimum Standard Energy Code. In cases of conflict, refer to
the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code for clarification.
APPENDIX RA
*Delete APPENDIX RA ‘RECOMMENDED PROCEDURE FOR WORST-CASE TESTING

OF ATMOSPHERIC VENTING SYSTEMS UNDER R402.4 OR R405
CONDITIONS 5ACH50’, entirely and substitute with new APPENDIX RA ‘AIR
SEALING KEY POINTS’.
APPENDIX RC
*Add new APPENDIX RC ‘THIRD PARTY VERIFICATION’.

APPENDIX RD
*Add new APPENDIX RD ‘MANDATORY COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE’.

The above referenced form, Mandatory Compliance Certificate is available to download for free
from DCA’s webpage located at: https://dca.ga.gov/node/3522/documents/2090
End of Supplements and Amendments.

Appendix RA
Air Sealing and Insulation Key Points
Air Barrier and Insulation Installation Component Guide
COMPONENT AIR BARRIER CRITERIA INSULATION INSTALLATION CRITERIA
A continuous air barrier shall be installed in
the building envelope.
1 General requirements The exterior thermal envelope contains a Air-permeable insulation shall not be used as a sealing material.
continuous air barrier.
Breaks or joints in the air barrier shall be sealed.
The air barrier in any dropped ceiling/soffit
shall be aligned with the insulation and any
gaps in the air barrier shall be sealed. The insulation in any dropped ceiling/soffit shall be aligned with the air
2 Ceiling/attic
Access openings, drop down stairs or knee barrier.
wall doors to unconditioned attic spaces shall
be sealed.
The junction of the foundation and sill plate Cavities within corners and headers of frame walls shall be insulated by
shall be sealed. completely filling the cavity with a material having a thermal resistance of
3 Walls The junction of the top plate and the top of R-3 per inch minimum.
exterior walls shall be sealed. Exterior thermal envelope insulation for framed walls shall be installed in
Knee walls shall be sealed. substantial contact and continuous alignment with the air barrier.
The space between window/door jambs and
4 Windows, skylights and doors framing, and skylights and framing shall be
sealed.
5 Rim joists Rim joists shall include the air barrier. Rim joists shall be insulated.
Floor framing cavity insulation shall be installed to maintain permanent
contact with the underside of subfloor decking, or floor framing cavity
Floors (including above garage and The air barrier shall be installed at any
6 insulation shall be permitted to be in contact with the top side of sheathing,
cantilevered floors) exposed edge of insulation.
or continuous insulation installed on the underside of floor framing and
extends from the bottom to the top of all perimeter floor framing members.
Exposed earth in unvented crawl spaces shall
Where provided instead of floor insulation (unvented crawl spaces),
7 Crawl space walls be covered with a Class I vapor retarder with
insulation shall be permanently attached to the crawlspace walls.
overlapping joints taped.
Duct shafts, utility penetrations, and flue
Capped chases shall be insulated to surrounding ceiling R-values
8 Shafts, penetrations shafts opening to exterior or unconditioned
(maintain clearance from combustion flues).
space shall be sealed.
Batts in narrow cavities shall be cut to fit, or narrow cavities shall be filled by
9 Narrow cavities
insulation that on installation readily conforms to the available cavity space.
Air sealing shall be provided between the
10 Garage separation Band area shall be blocked, sealed and insulated.
garage and conditioned spaces.
Recessed light fixtures installed in the building Recessed light fixtures installed in the building thermal envelope shall be
11 Recessed lighting
thermal envelope shall be sealed to the drywall. air tight and IC rated.
Batt insulation shall be cut neatly to fit around wiring and plumbing in
Wiring and plumbing penetrations shall be
12 Plumbing and wiring exterior walls, or insulation that on installation readily conforms to
sealed.
available space shall extend behind piping and wiring.
The air barrier installed at exterior walls
13 Shower/tub on exterior wall adjacent to showers and tubs shall separate Exterior walls adjacent to showers and tubs shall be insulated.
them from the showers and tubs.
The air barrier shall be installed behind
14 Electrical/phone box on exterior walls electrical or communication boxes or air-
sealed boxes shall be installed.
HVAC register boots shall be sealed to the Boots in unconditioned spaces shall be insulated. Recommend insulating
15 HVAC register boots
subfloor or drywall. boots in conditioned spaces for condensation control.
When required to be sealed, concealed fire
sprinklers shall only be sealed in a manner
that is recommended by the manufacturer.
16 Concealed sprinklers
Caulking or other adhesive sealants shall not
be used to fill voids between fire sprinkler
cover plates and walls or ceilings.
Blocking between framing (e.g. beneath
17 knee walls, cantilevered floors, garage Blocking shall be sealed to framing. Insulation shall be in contact with blocking.
separation walls)
Air barrier is installed in common wall between
18 Common walls
dwelling units.
New wood-burning fireplaces shall have tight-
19 Fireplaces fitting flue dampers or doors, and outdoor Fireplace chase insulation shall be restrained to stay in place.
combustion air.
Disclaimer: This document was created by

Southface and is intended solely to help
graphically demonstrate the air leakage and
insulation provisions of the 2015 IECC (2020
Georgia Energy Code). It does not cover all air
sealing locations, materials or techniques. Other
Georgia International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 code provisions may be applicable as well.
28
Appendix RA
Air sealing key points
Concealed sprinklers - Seal lights and

shall only be sealed as bath vent fans
per manufacturer to ceiling drywall
recommendations
8 16
Fan vented
through exterior
wall sealed at
penetration
11 Seal airtight IC-rated Insulate and install Insulate Energy

recessed light 13 sheet material 3 headers corner
fixtures to drywall behind bathtub Insulate and
3 air seal corners
Seal
12 Insulated exterior
plumbing wall
penetrations
8 1
(if ceiling is
insulated) Window
sealed
into rough
4 opening
with backer
rod and
sealant
Ladder
T-wall
9
Narrow stud
Seal gap between cavity batts
electrical box and are cut to fit
drywall
3 Seal bottom
plate to subfloor
12 14
3 Sealant
T-wall and
3 energy corner
Insulation behind stud
12
12 8
8 Seal wiring and
plumbing penetrations
Disclaimer:
This document was created by Southface and
is intended solely to help graphically
demonstrate the air leakage and insulation
provisions of the 2015 IECC (2020 Georgia
Energy Code). It does not cover all air sealing
locations, materials or techniques. Other code
provisions may be applicable as well.
Georgia International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 29
Appendix RA
Air sealing key points continued
Chases and common by-passes Cap top of chase

2 with solid air barrier
and insulate above
dropped soffit
Seal
chases 8
Install air barrier

on interior of all
insulated walls
1
MULTIFAMILY COMMON WALL
Seal
top plate
14
Seal
INTERIOR WALL
electrical boxes
and fixtures to Seal HVAC 14
drywall penetrations
15 Seal electrical
penetrations
through sheathing
14 12
Seal electrical
penetrations
Seal penetrations Seal plumbing Seal bottom
Seal
18 in common wall penetrations plate to subfloor
bottom and exterior
plate sheathing
3 3
Seal HVAC boot

15 penetrations
Shower/tub drain rough opening

Install insulation and sealed air
13 barrier behind tub (required)
14
Electrical panel box,

recommend install on
interior (non-insulated) wall.
If installed on exterior wall,
air barrier shall extend
behind box or air-sealed
box shall be installed.
Disclaimer:
12 8 Seal bathtub drain penetration demonstrate the air leakage and insulation
Appendix RA
Wall cross-section
Window rough opening
Attic
ventilation
4-inches Wind wash baffle and dam for
air-permeable insulation
See Insulation Details

for Ceilings with
Attic Spaces.
Soffit vent
Seal drywall to
top and
3
bottom plates 1
with caulk,
gaskets or glue
(recommended)
Seal bottom plate

to subfloor
3
Seal band joist

to subfloor and plates 5
4
Use backer rod and sealant or spray 1

foam appropriate for windows to fill 1 Tape or caulk exterior
gaps between window/door and sheathing seams (often the
rough opening Seal drywall to top plate
sheathing is the primary air
with caulk, gaskets or glue
barrier in framed walls)
(recommended)
Seal drywall to bottom plate with

caulk, gaskets or glue
(recommended). Seal bottom plate
3 to subfloor, foundation, or slab 3
Install exterior
water resistive
3 Sill gasket or double-bead of caulk under bottom plate 3 barrier as per
IRC 703.2
3-inch inspection gap

6
Insulation is Underfloor insulation
permanently attached must be installed to Air seal and insulate rim/band
to walls maintain permanent joist
contact with subfloor
Sealed CLASS I
7 vapor retarder
(air barrier required at
any exposed edge of
required in crawlspace insulation) Disclaimer:
Appendix RA
Combustion chase Combustion closet

penetrations Combustion air inlets
as per mechanical and/or fuel gas code
Seal around
chimney flues
8 with sheet
metal cap Flue stack
Insulate water lines for
Seal freeze protection
Rigid or spray foam Internal air barrier

option(recommend (recommended) or air
Seal gas and
covering with ignition impermeable
8 insulation 8 plumbing
barrier for fire protection)
12 penetrations
through walls
Blocking above
supporting wall for
cantilevered floor Insulate walls
(required) per code (required
if walls are part of
building thermal
17 Seal envelope)
1
Insulated
water heater
Insulation
Underfloor insulation must be (not required)
above top
plate of installed in permanent contact
6 with subfloor (air barrier
supporting
wall required at any exposed edge
of insulation)
Door closes
4 against solid threshold Bottom plate
sealed
Exterior penetrations
Seal exterior wall penetrations for Solid (non-louvered) door with weatherstripping
8 12 refrigeration lines, condensate line, etc. on all four edges
Disclaimer:
Appendix RA

Install blocking and rafter baffle to
prevent wind-washing if vented, insulated
roofline (required)
Add blocking
Sealed attic-side air barrier (required for air

3 permeable cavity insulation)— OSB,
R-18 attic 3
kneewall insulation insulated sheathing, air impermeable cavity
(Georgia requirement) insulation, etc.
R-13 cavity + R-5 continuous,
R-15 cavity + R-3 continuous,
or R-19 in 2x6 with sealed
attic-side air barrier
(eg. OSB/plywood)
Blocking - fit in joist cavity,

17 caulked or foamed
Attic knee-walls Two-level attic

Dam for blown
insulation
Unconditioned Space
Caulk/seal Caulk
2 rough opening Air barrier
required 1 3
R-18 attic kneewall insulation
(Georgia requirement)
R-13 + R-5, R-15 + R-3,
Caulk or R-19 in 2x6 with
OSB/plywood
Glue Blocking
Conditioned Conditioned Space

space
Rigid insulation Weather-strip door
(recommended) opening and
Minimum R-5 threshold Disclaimer:
(Georgia requirement) This document was created by Southface and
Appendix RA
Attic scuttle
Insulation dams
prevent loose-fill Hatch lid pushes up and
insulation from out of the way for access
falling through
access
Rigid insulation plus batt or spray
polyurethane foam (recommended),
minimum R-19 (Georgia requirement)
Air seal
Trim 2 gasket
Attic pull-down stairs

Rigid insulation box forms lid for pull-down attic staircase
Boxed enclosure for
(recommended)
staircase has rigid hinged
lid with insulation on top
Insulation dams prevent Cover box pushes up
loose-fill insulation from and out of the way for
falling through access access Insulated cover
Minimum R-5 minimum R-5
(Georgia requirement) (Georgia requirement)
Weatherstripping 2
Weatherstripping
2
Weatherstripping Seal gap between frame
Panel
and rough opening with
caulk, backer rod, or foam
Attic pull-down stairs
Insulation dams prevent Seal gap between frame and

loose-fill insulation from 2 rough opening with caulk,
falling through access backer rod, or foam
Weatherstripping
Disclaimer:
Panel is intended solely to help graphically
Insulation board demonstrate the air leakage and insulation
minimum R-5 provisions of the 2015 IECC (2020 Georgia
(Georgia requirement) locations, materials or techniques. Other code
Appendix RA
Garage blocking and sealing key points

Blocking, air sealing and insulation required above garage separation wall
Air seal at
edges of
blocking
Blocking
Insulation
GARAGE
SIDE
Garage separation
wall cavity insulation
HOUSE SIDE
Disclaimer:
Appendix RA
Garage to house door

Seal bottom plate
to subfloor
3
Garage
(unconditioned)
Air barrier
behind steps 10
Web trusses
Rigid or sprayed foam

(recommend covering with
ignition barrier, if required)
Basement
(conditioned)
Seal bottom plate

to subfloor
3 Inset garage to house door
Garage
(unconditioned)
Web truss 1
Air seal 10
Sheath and
insulate
Rigid mineral wool board or

cellulose blanket
Basement
(conditioned)
Disclaimer:
Appendix RA
Duct Sealing key points
Supply leakage
All seams in plenums, trunk lines and
boots must be sealed with mastic or
mastic tape.
Supply
Mastic air
Mastic
Mastic at
swivel joints
(gores)
Supply
leakage
Mastic
All closure systems shall have

mastic applied that is at least
0.08 inches (2mm) thick.
Ceiling
register
Caulk between
drywall and boot
Seal box to subfloor Seal seams then

install duct wrap
Seal joints and edges

of sheet metal box
with mastic
Seal flange
with mastic
Seal gaps
Seal boot between boot
Seal elbow gores
seams and and drywall
with mastic
then insulate
Disclaimer:
Appendix RA
Air Handler Sealing key points
Strap and mastic on inner

liner with second strap
holding insulation in place
Air Handling Unit
FILTER ACCESS
Mastic flange to plenum
Pull insulation to
plenum and cinch
after applying
mastic
Float switch
Mastic the permanent Condensate line drain Air-tight Separate
connections with “P-trap” and cleanout sealed/gasketed drain for pan
filter cover
Use metal coupling for

Supply duct flex to connections
Mastic permanent
connections
Condensate line
drain with
“P-trap” Seal connections with
mastic and straps
Mastic permanent
Air Handling Unit connections Cover coupling with
insulation
FILTER ACCESS
Return duct
Disclaimer:
Tape temporary
connections is intended solely to help graphically
Appendix RA

Multifamily
Multifamily Air-sealing Details

888 Cap and seal all chases including chases for
grouped utility lines and radon vents
Seal penetrations in mechanical closet including
penetrations for the:
8 supply plenum
8 outside air ventilation
8 12 refrigerant line
12 plumbing
12 14 electrical
12 gas fuel
5 Seal band area at exterior sheathing side and all
penetrations through band
1 3 UL-compliant air sealing at dr ywall finishing for
any wall adjacent to stairwell or elevator. Air seal
this gap at ever y change in floor level
8 Seal miscellaneous clustered penetrations
through building envelope (e.g. refrigerant lines)
Sheathing or water-resistive barrier

on exterior sheathing
Seal vent
penetration
8
Seal joints
in sheathing
1
BATH EXHAUST VENT
5
Seal all band joist
penetrations
Disclaimer:
Appendix RA

Multifamily
1 5
Seal gap
between levels
Cavity insulation FRAMED CONCRETE

plus exterior MULTI-STORY MASONRY UNIT
sheathing LIVING UNITS STAIRWELL
or ELEVATOR
1 3
CHASE
Seal
8
penetrations
through exterior
sheathing
Seal gap
between levels
1 5
Recommend rigid foam between Seal gap between concrete

concrete masonr y units and wall and framed units at
framed stud wall each level
Steel framing requirements

• Ther mal break (e.g. rigid foam)
required if steel studs
Disclaimer:
Appendix RA
Multifamily Mechanical Closet Seal electrical and plumbing

penetrations and perimeter of
outside air ventilation duct
8 12
OUTSIDE AIR VENTILATION DUCT
Seal plenum
penetration 8 PLENUM
through dr ywall
Utility chase
8 capped and
sealed at
LOUVERED DOOR perimeter -
at all levels
AIR
HANDLER
UTILITY
CHASE
Inter mittent
COILS inline supply fan
Seal refrigerant
penetration 8 12 with controls to
ensure
concurrent air
TILTED handler
Seal plumbing FILTER operation
penetration
8 12
Seal electrical
WATER HEATER 8 12 and plumbing
penetrations
Utility chase
capped and
sealed at
8 perimeter -
at all levels
Seal perimeter of
drain penetration
8
Disclaimer:
Appendix RA
Building Thermal Envelope — The basement walls, exterior walls, floor, roof, and any other building
element that enclose conditioned space. This boundary also includes the boundary between conditioned space and any exempt or
unconditioned space. —2015 IECC
The building thermal envelope is the barrier that separates the conditioned space from the outside or unconditioned spaces. The building
envelope consists of two parts - an air barrier and a thermal barrier that must be both continuous and contiguous (touching each other).
In a typical residence, the building envelope consists of the roof, walls, windows, doors, and foundation. Examples of unconditioned spaces
include attics, vented crawlspaces, garages, and basements with ceiling insulation and no HVAC supply registers.
Example 1 – Prescriptive Compliance Example 2 – Alternate Compliance Example 3 – Alternate Compliance
Basement
(conditioned or
indirectly-
conditioned)
This is a conventional approach that If supply registers deliver conditioned The top conditioned floor functions
likely locates all ductwork in air to basement, it is considered as a vaulted ceiling with interior walls
unconditioned spaces. conditioned. With no supply air, it is although it appears to have kneewalls
considered an indirectly-conditioned and a flat ceiling. An advantage of this
Prescriptive R-values space. approach is that all upstairs ductwork is
 Flat ceiling: R-38 located inside the building envelope.
Example R-values1
 Exterior walls: R-13  Flat ceiling: R-38 The crawlspace walls are insulated and
 Floor over garage and basement/  Kneewalls: R-18 (required)
2 do not contain vents. The crawlspace
crawl: R-19 (climate zones 3 & 4) (R-13+ R-5, R-15 + R-3, R-19 in 2x6) ground is covered with 100% plastic and
 Ductwork sealed with mastic and functions as a “mini-basement.”
 Vaulted ceiling: R-20 air-permeable
insulated to R-8 in attic, R-6 in insulation plus R-5 rigid foam board 3 Example R-values1
basement/crawlspace
 Exterior walls: R-13  Vaulted ceiling: R-20
 Garage5, attic and basement/crawl 3
 Basement masonry walls: R-5 air-impermeable foam insulation
are unconditioned spaces
 Basement slab: R-0 4  Exterior walls: R-13 + R-5 sheathing
 Ductwork sealed with mastic and  Crawlspace walls: R-5

insulated to R-8 in attic, R-6 in  Ductwork sealed with mastic and
basement insulated to R-6
 Garage5 and attic are unconditioned  Garage5 is unconditioned space
spaces
1 R-values shown are examples and not necessarily prescriptive code requirements. Refer to the Georgia Energy
Code for specific prescriptive insulation requirements.
2 An attic kneewall is any vertical wall that separates conditioned space from an unconditioned attic.
In Georgia, kneewalls must be insulated to R-18. A sealed attic-side air barrier (OSB, foil-faced sheathing, etc.)
is required when using air permeable insulation.
3 Requires trade-off since prescriptive ceiling requirement is R-38, see roofline installed insulation options and Disclaimer:
section 806.5 of the 2012 IRC. This document was created by Southface and
4 Slab insulation is not required in Georgia due to termite risk. demonstrate the air leakage and insulation
5 Although there is nothing to prevent the garage walls from being insulated, due to indoor air quality concerns, Energy Code). It does not cover all air sealing
the garage should never be considered inside the building locations, materials or techniques. Other code
42
Georgia International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020
Appendix RA
Insulation Details for Ceilings with Attic spaces

Rafter and Truss
Note: Wind wash baffle and

Standard Truss air-permeable insulation
dam. For air permeable
with tapered 4-inches insulation in vented attics,
insulation depth Insulation baffle baffles shall be installed
adjacent to soffit and eave
vents. A minimum of a 1-inch
Insulation of space shall be provided
between the insulation and
Soffit dam the roof sheathing and at the
(cardboard or location of the vent. The
rigid foam board) baffle shall extend over the
top of the insulation inward
until it is at least 4 inches
vertically above the top of the
insulation. Any solid material
Energy Truss such as cardboard or thin
with full height insulation Insulation baffle insulating sheathing shall be
(recommended) permissible as the baffle.
Insulation
4-inches
NOTE:
R-30 complete coverage
Soffit dam
is deemed equivalent to (cardboard or rigid
prescriptive R-38 foam board)
Soffit vent
Standard rafter
and top plate
with tapered 4-inches
insulation depth Insulation baffle

Insulation
Soffit dam
(cardboard or rigid
foam board)
Rafter on raised top plate Soffit vent

with full height insulation
Minimum 1-inch depth
(recommended) for insulation baffle
Soffit dam
(cardboard or rigid
Insulation foam board)
4-inches
NOTE:
Raised top plate
R-30 complete coverage
is deemed equivalent to
prescriptive R-38
Disclaimer:
Soffit vent Energy Code). It does not cover all air sealing
Appendix RA
Roofline Installed Insulation Options

Reference Table 402.1.1 and 402.1.6 in the Georgia Energy Code
amendments to the 2015 IECC and Section 806.5 “unvented attic
assemblies” in the Georgia Amendments to the 2012 IRC
Shingles
Vaulted unvented attic –

roofline air-impermeable insulation
(e.g., spray foam insulation)
Roofing felt
Decking
Air impermeable insulation Air impermeable insulation

(e.g., open- or closed- R-20 minimum if trade-offs are used
cell spray foam) (Georgia requirements)
Vaulted unvented attic – Option 1

roofline air-permeable insulation Air impermeable
(e.g., fiberglass, cellulose insulation) insulation continuous above
rafters (e.g. rigid foam board)
combined with air-permeable
insulation
Air impermeable Shingles Shingles
(e.g., fiberglass,
insulation
cellulose insulation)
(e.g. rigid foam board)
Roofing felt R-5 minimum in Roofing felt

climate zones 2 & 3
R-15 minimum in
Decking climate zone 4
Decking
Option 2
Air-permeable Air impermeable Air-permeable insulation
insulation insulation between (e.g., fiberglass, cellulose
(e.g.. fiberglass, rafters (e.g. rigid foam insulation) R-20 minimum if
cellulose insulation) board or spray foam) combined with trade-offs are used (Georgia
R-20 minimum if trade-offs are used air-permeable insulation (e.g., fiberglass, requirements)
(Georgia requirements) cellulose insulation)
Cathedralized vented ceiling–

roofline air-permeable insulation
Air-permeable insulation Ridge vent
(e.g., fiberglass, cellulose insulation)
(e.g., fiberglass, cellulose
insulation) R-20 minimum if
trade-offs are used
(Georgia requirements)
Shingles
Air-permeable insulation
(e.g., fiberglass, cellulose ½" drywall
½" drywall
insulation) R-20 minimum if Roofing felt interior ceiling
interior ceiling
trade-offs are used
(Georgia requirements)
Decking
Disclaimer:
Vent baffles and dams This document was created by Southface and
create a channel that is intended solely to help graphically
fully extends from Soffit vent demonstrate the air leakage and insulation
soffit to ridge vent Energy Code). It does not cover all air sealing
Appendix RA
Georgia Insulation Installation – Passing Grade Details
Wall and ceiling insulation that makes up portions of the building thermal envelope shall be installed to Passing Grade quality.
Two criteria affect installed insulation grading: voids/gaps (in which no insulation is present in a portion of the overall insulated
surface) and compression/incomplete fill (in which the insulation does not fully fill out or extend to the desired depth).
Voids/Gaps
o Voids or gaps in the insulation are < 1% of overall component surface area (only occasional and very small gaps
allowed for Passing Grade)
Compression/Incomplete Fill
o Compression/Incomplete Fill for both air permeable insulation (e.g., fiberglass, cellulose) and air impermeable
insulation (e.g., spray polyurethane foam) must be less than 1 inch in depth or less than 30% of the intended depth,
whichever is more stringent. The allowable area of compression/incomplete fill must be less than 2% of the overall
insulated surface to achieve a Passing Grade.
o Any compression/incomplete fill with a depth greater than the above specifications (up to 1” or 30% of the intended
depth, whichever is more stringent) shall not achieve a Passing Grade.
Additional Wall Insulation Requirements

o All vertical air permeable insulation shall be installed in substantial contact with an air barrier on all six (6) sides.
Exception: Unfinished basements, rim/band joist cavity insulation and fireplaces (insulation shall be restrained to stay in
place).
For unfinished basements, air permeable insulation and associated framing in a framed cavity wall shall be installed
less than ¼” from the basement wall surface.
o Attic knee wall details – Attic knee walls shall be insulated to a total R-value of at least R-18 through any combination
of cavity and continuous insulation. Air permeable insulation shall be installed with a fully sealed attic-side air barrier
(e.g., OSB with seams caulked, rigid insulation with joints taped, etc.). Attic knee walls with air impermeable insulation
shall not require an additional attic-side air barrier.
Underfloor insulation that makes up portions of the building thermal envelope shall be installed to Passing Grade quality.
Two criteria affect installed insulation grading: voids/ gaps (in which no insulation is present in a portion of the overall insulated
surface) and compression/incomplete fill (in which the insulation does not fully fill out or extend to the desired depth).
Voids/Gaps
o Voids or gaps in the insulation are minimal for Passing Grade (< 2% of overall component surface area)
Compression/Incomplete Fill
o Compression/Incomplete Fill for both air permeable insulation (e.g., fiberglass, cellulose) and air impermeable
insulation (e.g., spray polyurethane foam) must be less than 1 inch in depth or less than 30% of the intended depth,
whichever is more stringent. The allowable area of compression/incomplete fill must be less than 10% of the overall
insulated surface to achieve a Passing Grade.
o Any compression/incomplete fill with a depth greater than the above specifications (up to 1” or 30% of the intended
depth, whichever is more stringent) shall not achieve a Passing Grade.
o Air-permeable underfloor insulation shall be permanently installed against the subfloor decking. Adequate insulation
supports (e.g., wire staves) for air permeable insulation shall be installed at least every 18-24”.
Exception: The floor framing-cavity insulation shall be permitted to be in contact with the topside of sheathing or
continuous insulation installed on the bottom side of floor framing where combined with insulation that meets or
exceeds the minimum wood frame wall R-value and that extends from the bottom to the top of all perimeter floor
framing members.
Disclaimer:
Georgia International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 provisions may be applicable as well.
45
Appendix RA
Wall Insulation key points

Voids / Gaps
Passing Grade Unacceptable Installation
Insulation is notched and completely Incomplete insulation coverage

surrounds electrical box around electrical box
Insulation fully fills Narrow cavity Insulation does not Narrow cavity
cavity at top and bottom fully insulated extend to bottom of cavity not insulated
Compression / Incomplete Fill

Passing Grade Unacceptable Installation
Insulation is slit around electrical wire Insulation is compressed behind electrical wire
Insulation extends from Proper width Insulation does not fully Improper width insulation is
front to back and fully insulation fully fill entire cavity compressed into narrow cavity
fills entire cavity fills narrow cavity
Disclaimer:
Appendix RA
Ceiling Insulation key points
Passing Grade
ATTIC CARD Brand X Fiberglass

Initial Installed thickness: 14"
Settled thickness: 12"
Settled R-value: 38
Installed density: 1.8 lb./ft3
1,800 sq.ft. @ 90 bags
Vent baffles extend at least

Vent 4" above top of insulation
baffle
Dam
Dam and
vent baffle
Insulation depth guide Insulation batt in full

(install facing attic access,
one ruler per 300 sq.ft.)
contact with air barrier
(ceiling drywall)
Insulation batt is slit

around electrical wiring
Insulation dam at attic

access maintains full
height coverage of
loose-fill insulation
Airtight, IC-rated fixture
sealed to drywall ceiling
Consistent, level insulation coverage and completely covered by
for all insulation types loose-fill insulation or
fiberglass batt cut to fit
Disclaimer:
Appendix RA
Ceiling Insulation key points
Unacceptable installation
Insulation batt not slit

around electrical wire
Insulation coverage
tapered at soffit vent
No baffle
or dam
Insulation batt not in full
contact with air barrier
(ceiling drywall)
Insulation depth
guide not installed
No insulation dam at attic

access means tapered
coverage of loose-fill Non-airtight fixture not
insulation sealed to drywall ceiling
Incomplete coverage is lumpy, mounded, and insulation held back
inconsistent or missing
Disclaimer:
Appendix RA
Floor Insulation key points
Passing Grade
Installed insulation is in complete

contact with air barrier (subfloor)
Wire staves
Insulation coverage Insulation is slit around plumbing

is complete and wiring and securely fastened
with minimal compression
Unacceptable Installation
Insulation is not installed in complete

contact with air barrier (subfloor)
Insulation coverage is incomplete Insulation is compressed around

due to obstructions (plumbing, plumbing and wiring and is not
electrical, ductwork, etc.) securely fastened
Disclaimer:
Appendix RC
APPENDIX RC
THIRD PARTY VERIFICATION
SECTION RC101
GENERAL
RC101.1 Scope. The provisions of this appendix govern the requirements for third-party
verification of this code.
RC101.2 Adoption. The authority having jurisdiction may adopt this appendix to utilize third-
party verification of this code.
SECTION RC102
DEFINITIONS
THIRD-PARTY VERIFIER. An independent person or firm responsible for conducting

inspections and/or testing and plan review to verify a project’s compliance with the provisions of
this code.
SECTION RC103
QUALIFICATIONS
RC103.1 General. It shall be the responsibility of the permit holder to retain a qualified third-
party verifier. The third-party verifier shall not be an employee of the owner or builder or have
a financial interest in the project.
RC103.2 Residential buildings. Third-party verifiers shall have one of the following minimum
qualifications to conduct inspections or plan review for the energy efficiency provisions of
residential buildings as defined by this code:
1. Accredited HERS Rater

2. ICC Residential Energy Inspector/Plans Examiner Certification
3. EarthCraft House Technical Advisor
4. Building Performance Institute (BPI) Analyst
5. Equivalent qualifications as approved by the local code official
Exception: Where the specific provisions of this code require additional qualifications.
RC103.3 Commercial buildings. Third-party verifiers shall have one of the following
minimum qualifications to conduct inspections or plan review for the energy efficiency
provisions of commercial buildings as defined by this code:
1. ICC Commercial Energy Inspector and ICC Commercial Plans Examiner

Certifications
2. Equivalent qualifications as approved by the local code official

Appendix RC
Exception: Where the specific provisions of this code require additional qualifications.
SECTION RC104
INSPECTIONS
RC104.1 General. Construction or work, conducted under the provisions of this code, for which
a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by a third-party verifier.
RC104.2 Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the permit holder or their duly authorized
agent to notify the third-party verifier when work is ready for inspection and to provide access to
and means for inspection of such work required by this code.
RC104.3 Fees. The permit holder shall be responsible for all fees charged by the third-party
verifier.
RC104.4 Residential buildings. A minimum of two inspections shall be conducted for each
residential building. The first inspection shall be conducted prior to the closing-up of building
cavities; and shall include verification of compliance with the following: insulation, fenestration,
air sealing and duct insulation and sealing. The second inspection shall be conducted after the
building has been substantially completed and prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
The second inspection shall include verification of compliance with any portions of this code not
verified during the first inspection.
RC104.5 Commercial buildings. A minimum number of inspections as determined by the

third-party verifier shall be conducted to ensure verification of compliance with the provisions of
Chapter 5 of this code or ASHRAE 90.1.
RC104.6 Re-inspection. A building shall be re-inspected when determined necessary by the

third-party verifier or local code official.
RC104.7 Approval report. Inspection and verification reports shall be submitted by the third
party verifier to the local code official.

Appendix RD
Appendix RD
Mandatory Compliance Certificate
2020 Georgia Residential Energy Code Compliance Certificate
Jurisdiction Logo and/or
This certificate shall be permanently posted on or in the electrical distribution panel
Contact Information
Permit#
Here
D Prescriptive: R401-404
D UA Trade-off:R402.1.5
D RESCheck:Keyed to 2015 IECC
D Simulated Performance: R405 r-------------------------------------+----- --------------------
D Energy Rating Index (ERI): R406 r------- -- -- -------- ----------+- -----------------------
Efficiency (SEER, Efficiency (EF or

EER or other) other)
Design Ventilation
Rate (CFM)
r= ------------------------------------
Version 1.0
Authority: O.C.G.A. § 8-2-20 et seq.

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Georgia State Supplements

and Amendments to the

Georgia Department of Community Affairs

Revised January 1, 2020

The INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE, 2015 Edition, published by

GEORGIA STATE SUPPLEMENTS AND AMENDMENTS

GA International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 2

This space intentionally left blank.

GA International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 3

*Delete Section C101.1 ‘Title’ without substitution.

*Delete SECTION C104 ‘INSPECTIONS’ without substitution.

*Delete SECTION C107 ‘FEES’ without substitution.

*Delete SECTION C108 ‘STOP WORK ORDER’ without substitution.

*Delete SECTION C109 ‘BOARD OF APPEALS’ without substitution.

GA International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 4

*Revise the definition for ‘COEFFICIENT OF PERFORMANCE (COP) – COOLING’, to read

COEFFICIENT OF PERFORMANCE (COP) – COOLING. The ratio of the rate of heat

*Delete definition of ‘CONDITIONED SPACE’ and substitute the following:

*Add definition of ‘COOLING TOWER’ to read as follows:

GA International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 5

This space intentionally left blank.

GA International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 6

*Revise Table C402.1.3 ‘Opaque Thermal Envelope Insulation Component Minimum

(Effective January 1, 2020)

GA International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 7

GA International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 8

*Revise Section C403.3 ‘Economizers (Prescriptive)’ to read as follows:

C403.3 Economizers (Prescriptive).

GA International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 9

*Delete Section C407.3 ‘Performance-based compliance’ and substitute to read as follows:

C407.3 Performance-based compliance. Compliance based on total building performance

C407.4.2 Additional documentation.

6. Documentation of the reduction in annual energy use associated with on-site

*Revise Section C408 ‘System Commissioning’ to read as follows:

*Delete Section C408.2.4.1 ‘Acceptance of report’ without substitution.

GA International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 10

(Standards not listed to remain unchanged)

This space intentionally left blank.

GA International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 11

*Delete Section R101.1‘Title’ without substitution.

*Delete SECTION R103 ‘CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS’ without substitution.

*Delete SECTION R104 ‘INSPECTIONS’ without substitution.

*Delete SECTION R107 ‘FEES’ without substitution.

*Delete SECTION R108 ‘STOP WORK ORDER’ without substitution.

*Delete SECTION R109 ‘BOARD OF APPEALS’ without substitution.

GA International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 12

*Add definition of ‘ATTIC KNEEWALL’ to read as follows:

*Add new definition of ‘CERTIFIED DUCT AND ENVELOPE TIGHTNESS (DET)

CERTIFIED DUCT AND ENVELOPE TIGHTNESS (DET) VERIFIER. A certified

*Delete definition of ‘CONDITIONED SPACE’ and substitute to read as follows:

GA International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 13

GA International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 14

*Revise Section R401.2 ‘Compliance’ to read as follows:

R401.2 Compliance. Projects shall comply with all provisions of Chapter 4

R401.3 Certificate (Mandatory). A permanent certificate shall be completed by the builder or

2 0. 35 0.65 0.27 38 13 18 4/6 13 0 0 0

3 0.35 0.55 0.27 38 13 18 8/13 19 5/13f 0 5/13

(Remainder of footnotes left unchanged) (Effective January 1, 2020)

GA International Energy Conservation Code Supplements and Amendments 2020 15

3 0.35 0.55 0.030 0.084 0.098 0.047 0.091c 0.136